Locations and Venues
The final farewell of your loved one is an event where whānau and friends come together as a beautiful personal statement to honour the person who has died.
Booking a funeral venue
Here are some things you might want to consider when deciding on a location for a funeral service:
What are the legal requirements?
If you are not working with a funeral director, you will need to take legal requirements, cultural beliefs and customs into consideration when choosing a location for a final farewell. While there are no laws about where a service can be held, there are laws regarding transporting the body and burial and cremation. Read more about caring for the body.
Get permission for the service
It is important to ask permission from the owner or management of the venue or property before holding the service, as a courtesy and to make sure the service complies with their regulations.
Accessibility
It’s a good idea to consider access for the coffin or casket (if the body will be present at the ceremony) to be carried in and out, as well as access and seating for the elderly and disabled.
Privacy
Take into consideration how private the venue is to allow people to grieve openly.
Who can officiate a funeral service?
A minister, celebrant, community leader or a family member are all possibilities. There are no legal requirements as to who can officiate, however, consideration must be given to their ability to perform on the day. It is their responsibility to liaise with the family and to plan and coordinate the structure of the service.
Frequently Asked Questions
While there are no laws about where a service can be held, there are laws regarding transporting the body and burial and cremation.
Yes, you can hold a funeral service at a private home, in a garden, at a beach, in a public park, or any outdoor location in New Zealand. There are no legal restrictions on where a funeral service can take place. More about home funerals…
A memorial service usually means no body and takes place when the body has already been creamated or buried.
Popular options in New Zealand include family homes, community halls, RSA or sports clubs, beaches or parks, golf clubs, boat clubs, marae, reception venues, workplaces, or even stadiums for public figures. The key is choosing a place that reflects your loved one’s personality or holds special significance to them.
Key facilities to consider include adequate seating for your expected number of guests, parking, restroom facilities, accessibility features for elderly or mobility-impaired guests, and a sound system for music and speeches.
Many families also appreciate audio-visual equipment for displaying photos or videos, reception or catering areas for refreshments afterward, and increasingly, streaming capabilities for remote attendees.